Stability and load capacity of cylindrical tensegrity modules considering geometrical and material nonlinear behavior

Cylindrical tensegrity modules are lightweight self-stabilizing systems that derive their structural integrity from a balance of tensile forces in cables and compressive forces in struts. This study investigates their stability and load capacity, accounting for geometric and material nonlinearity. A nonlinear finite element model is developed to conduct a detailed parametric nonlinear analysis considering large displacements and rotations and the possible asymmetric response of the system. The deformation kinematics under vertical loading, which identifies a characteristic screw-like motion that critically influences its stiffness, post-buckling stability and load capacity. The proposed framework enables a comprehensive quantification of how topological, geometric, and material parameters govern the system’s ultimate load capacity and stability, thereby providing clear guidelines for the optimal design and reliable application of cylindrical tensegrity modules.